This legislative move aims to ensure macroeconomic stability and protect citizens from potential price shocks driven by global geopolitical volatility.

Under the new regulations, gas prices for residential bill payers will remain capped at RON 0.31 (€0.06) per kWh. The decision is rooted in the country's strategy to transition toward total energy independence, with domestic production expected to double within the next year. By aligning the eventual market liberalisation with increased supply, the government intends to bypass the inflationary pressures typically associated with energy price spikes.

Romanian PM Ilie Bolojan said: "The best time for market liberalisation, to ensure we do not have any price increase shocks, is when the gas supply on the market is sufficient."

The PM further noted that the policy serves as a buffer against instability in the Gulf region, which has impacted global energy markets.

While the current focus remains on households, the Ministry of Energy is conducting a market analysis to determine future protections for industrial consumers, who currently benefit from a cap of RON 0.37 (€0.07) per kWh.